Batik Air Launches Direct Guangzhou-Kuching Route, Flight Time Under 4 Hours

(Kuching, 18th) The inaugural Batik Air direct flight from Guangzhou to Kuching International Airport arrived smoothly today, marking the opening of a brand new route between southern China and Sarawak, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Deputy Minister of Sarawak Transport (Maritime and River Transport), Henry Sum Agong, representing Sarawak Transport Minister Lee Kim Shin, stated that this flight carried about 145 passengers, nearly full capacity.
He said: "The relatively short flight time will enhance Kuching’s accessibility and help boost the development of tourism and business travel."
"This is a direct flight that only takes 3 hours and 45 minutes, and compared to flights that require transfers, has a clear advantage." He told reporters after hosting the welcoming ceremony.
He pointed out that the Sarawak Transport Ministry is committed to increasing more direct international flight routes within a 3 to 6-hour flight radius to support the state’s economic development.
Regarding Sarawak’s plan to establish the state-owned airline AirBorneo, he indicated that as the airline is newly established and has no prior international operation records, it will take time to secure foreign landing rights.
He added that the state government is also continuing to collaborate with existing airlines, including Batik Air, AirAsia, and MAS, to further improve connectivity under the coordination of the Transport Ministry.
In conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya festival, relevant authorities have also scheduled additional flights, and Kuching International Airport is expected to see a passenger peak.